Be yourself, be honest and try to relax.Be prepared. Make sure you understand the process and have researched the firm. Speak to current students.Know your resume and cover letter. Anticipate questions and consider responses. Understand what your strengths and skills are and how best to highlight them through example

Understand your own goals and objectives: to make a favorable impression, to collect information about the firm and to assess your own “fit”.

Understand the firm’s goals and objectives: to provide information about the firm, to collect information about you, to assess your “fit” with the firm and to leave you with a favorable and accurate impression about Davies and our selection process.

Think about why you are interested in Davies and articulate your reasons. Do not be afraid to ask tough questions or raise any issues of concern.

Identify the qualities of your ideal firm – practice areas, culture, size, work/life balance, opportunities for growth or travel. Be sure to ask the interviewers about issues that are important to you. Engage in conversation and ask questions that show you are interested in the firm and the type of work. Try not to be too “scripted” or prepared but remember to adapt to the conversation (i.e.. sometimes answers to questions can appear “canned”). Get a feel for the firm: the values, opportunities for continuing education and growth, social atmosphere etc.

Wear comfortable business attire. Ask interviewers for their business card.

Common Interviewing Mistakes

Lack of preparation: no knowledge of firm’s practice areas, values and approach.

Nervousness: try to relax: remember on paper you have already met the firm’s standards.

Not listening to question asked: be responsive and ask for clarification if unsure.

Not engaging in conversation: interact with the interviewers and ask questions.

Being too scripted or prepared.

Going overboard on flattering the firm: unfortunately, this rarely comes across as sincere.

Not showing enough interest in the firm: we want people who want to be here.

Forgetting that dinners/cocktails parties are still part of the interview/selection process.

Not having an answering machine or cell to enable firms to reach you during the week.

Inappropriate attire: business attire is advisable for interviews, dinners and receptions.